news & updates
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Stay updated with the latest news and developments from Queens Gambit as we continue to empower youth through the transformative power of chess, offering insights into our partnerships, programs, and success stories.
OUR WORK IN ACTION
Youth Instructor Luke Martin is 2025 Outstanding Young Citizen Awardee
Luke Martin, a dedicated youth instructor at Queens Gambit, has been honored as a 2025 Outstanding Young Citizen Awardee by Trib Live.
Ashley Lynn Priore Graduates from the Obama Foundation’s Leaders USA Program
Ashley Lynn Priore graduates from the Obama Foundation’s Leaders USA Program, joining a powerful network of changemakers dedicated to driving impact across the country.
Queens Gambit Now Accepting Applications for Summer 2025 Partnerships!
Queens Gambit is looking for partners to bring the power of chess to students in grades 2-12, prioritizing historically marginalized and underfunded communities. Apply by May 1.
Queens Gambit Welcomes Dr. Melissa Pearlman to the Board of Directors
We’re excited to welcome Dr. Melissa Pearlman to the Queens Gambit Board of Directors! A passionate educator and community leader, Dr. Pearlman brings decades of experience in advancing student success. Read more about her impact and what she brings to our mission.
Queens Gambit Returns to Remake Learning Days with Popup! Chess
Join Queens Gambit as we celebrate 10 years of Remake Learning Days with Popup! Chess, a free, interactive event for all ages. Whether you're new to chess or a seasoned player, come learn, play, and connect in a fun, welcoming environment!
Queens Gambit Leads Chess Sessions at Boys & Girls Clubs of Western PA’s Empower Her Event
At the 7th Annual Empower Her event (hosted by the Boys & Girls Club of Western PA), Queens Gambit introduced girls to the power of chess — not just as a game, but as a tool for leadership and confidence.
Queens Gambit Named Pittsburgh Pirates Nonprofit of the Game for the Third Consecutive Year
Queens Gambit is proud to announce its selection as the Nonprofit of the Game for the Pittsburgh Pirates on September 2, marking the organization's third consecutive year in this esteemed role.
Instructor Perspectives: Zach Werstil’s Chess Journey
In our latest Instructor Perspectives feature, Zach Werstil shares how early lessons in patience, creativity, and empathy on the chessboard now guide his approach as a dedicated instructor.
Partnership Highlight: Wilkinsburg Public Library
Discover how our partnership with the Wilkinsburg Public Library is bringing chess to life for local youth! Children’s Librarian Charlene Castronovo shares how chess is helping teens develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills while sparking a renewed interest in the game.
Nurturing Life Skills Through Chess: Top 5 Ways to Inspire Your Child's Growth
Discover how chess can be a powerful tool to inspire your child's personal growth. In our latest blog post, we share five engaging strategies to introduce chess to your child, focusing on developing life skills such as critical thinking, patience, and resilience.
Queens Gambit Vice Chair named Pittsburgh Business Times 30 under 30
Queens Gambit Vice Chair & Partnerships Lead, Vidya Surti, named to Pittsburgh Business Times 30 under 30 list.
Queens Gambit Announces First Slate of Winter 2025 Partnerships
Queens Gambit is thrilled to announce our first slate of Winter 2025 partnerships! This season, we’ll collaborate with schools and organizations across Pittsburgh to bring our transformative chess programs to youth in underserved communities.
Empowering the Next Generation: An Internship Experience at Queens Gambit
Discover how our internship program empowers young leaders to drive meaningful change! In this post, we highlight Marcus Gillespie’s journey as a Community Liaison with Queens Gambit, sharing insights on his favorite projects, professional growth, and key takeaways from the experience.
Top 5 Reasons Why Youth Should Learn to Play Chess
Chess is more than just a game—it’s a powerful tool for building essential life skills. From enhancing critical thinking and concentration to boosting creativity and confidence, chess helps young minds grow in remarkable ways.
Queens Gambit Welcomes Slate of New Board Members
Queens Gambit welcomes three new board members.
Ashley Lynn Priore of Queens Gambit Chess Institute (Pittsburgh, PA) Announced as 2025 Forbes 30 under 30
Ashley Lynn Priore announced as 2025 Forbes 30 under 30.
Queens Gambit Announces 64 Hours of Giving Campaign: "Move the Next Generation Forward"
The Queens Gambit Chess Institute is thrilled to announce the launch of its 64 Hours of Giving campaign, set to begin on October 1st, 2024. This 64-hour fundraising initiative aims to raise $10,000 and bring in 64 new donors to support the Institute's mission of empowering young minds through chess.
Ashley Lynn Priore of Queens Gambit Chess Institute (Pittsburgh, PA) Announced as 2024-2025 Obama Foundation Leader
Ashley Lynn Priore announced as 2024-2025 Obama Foundation Leader.
Queens Gambit Announces Exciting Lineup for Chess Week 2024
Queens Gambit is thrilled to announce the official lineup for Chess Week 2024. From October 1-8, 2024, Pittsburgh will once again host a full week of chess-themed activities, engaging people of all ages and skill levels to connect over the game of chess.
Queens Gambit Named Nonprofit of the Game for Pittsburgh Pirates on July 23
Queens Gambit is proud to announce its selection as the Nonprofit of the Game for the Pittsburgh Pirates on July 23, marking the organization's second consecutive year in this esteemed role.